Why We Play
Parkitects specializes in creating inclusive and participatory play spaces that empower communities across New York State. Our journey began with a passion for bringing people together through play, and that mission continues to drive everything we do today.
We believe that every child deserves to play on a quality playground, and every community deserves to work with a team that makes the process easy, fun, and rewarding. From design through installation and beyond, we’re dedicated to creating spaces where communities thrive and children of all abilities can experience the joy of play.
Our Core Values
Play
We believe that children of all abilities deserve a place to play. We see playgrounds as places, not just products, and know that the process of creating a play space can unite communities. For us, play isn’t just what we build—it’s how we work and who we are.
Relationships
We bring people together, both within our company and through the work we produce. Our strength comes from teams who support and trust one another in accomplishing our mission. We treat our clients and partners with respect and work to give them the best experience alongside us.
Improvement
We challenge ourselves individually and collectively to refine our process and execution. With a solutions-oriented mindset, we continuously raise the bar for ourselves, our clients, and our industry. Excellence isn’t a destination—it’s our ongoing commitment.
Service
We approach our work with a can-do attitude, supporting one another and our communities. We’re responsive and respectful, working to understand the unique needs of every project. Our dedication to service extends beyond installation through maintenance, inspection, and long-term support.
Why Play Matters
Our team doesn’t just build playgrounds—we believe in the transformative power of play. Here’s why play matters to us:
I believe that playgrounds build not just physical spaces but the children who play in them. My passion started when I helped design and build the Leathers Community Playground in my hometown. That early experience showed me the power of what people can achieve together.
-Ben Frasier, President
As we age, we forget how to play, focusing on short-term goals and careers. Play returns when we have children, as we show, teach, and relearn how to enjoy simpler times, finding joy in games, creative imagination, and swinging to feel like flying.
-Dave Mason, Project Manager
Play has a unique way to bring people together for socialization and education, but it also challenges us individually and calls us to exploration and adventure.
-Andy Walsh, Genesee Regional Manager
Play matters to me because it is one venue where abilities don’t matter and every person can experience movement and joy with others.
-Pam Schuner, Executive Assistant
Play matters because it is crucial for the physical, mental, and social development of children of all ages. It fosters creativity, builds resilience, and encourages healthy interactions.
-Leore Kushner, Hudson Valley Regional Manager
I love this quote that reflects why play matters to me: “Because play fosters joy. Play fosters connection and empathy and acceptance and compassion.” – Steve Lauzun
-Sara Emery, Marketing & Sales Support Specialist
Excellence in Play
Over the years, our commitment to excellence has been recognized through various awards and memberships:
Awards for Design Excellence
- Merit Award in Built Design from American Society of Landscape Architects NY Upstate Chapter – Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Children’s Academy, 2014
- Merit Award in Built Design from American Society of Landscape Architects NY Upstate Chapter – Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Rochester, NY, 2014
- Merit Award in Built Design from American Society of Landscape Architects NY Upstate Chapter – Olean Intermediate School, Olean, NY, 2024
Industry Recognition
- Achieved LSI sales goal 18 out of 24 years (2000-present)
- Landscape Structures Inclusive Play Leadership Award, 2018
- Landscape Structures Rep of the Year, 2019
- Poligon Largest Percentage Increase to 3 Year Sales Average, 2014 & 2024
Professional Affiliations
- New York State School Board Association (NYSSBA) – 20 Years of Blue & Gold Member
- National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
- New York State Recreation and Park Society (NYSRPS)
- Certified Playground Safety Inspectors (CPSI)